Thoughts On This Series I?

[YamatoJJ]

Hi, Everyone!

Happy 2022!

While I’m still just figuring out what’s what as a new person getting into Alembics, and since they’re so cool, I just drool over what I see! I posted in my intro how I was loving a 93 SC Custom order (and it is GORGEOUS) but I saw this, and wondered what you kind folks thought:

https://reverb.com/item/46768737-alembic-1979-msb-series-i-natural-11-15?utm_source=rev-ios-app&utm_medium=ios-share&utm_campaign=listing&utm_content=46768737

[hdfixer]

Seems like a lot of finish checking in the later pics.  Price seems too high for USA in similar condition (I recently purchased an even older Alembic that was less).  Also if it has not had an RF upgrade (from the factory) it will likely be very noisy in any populated area?

[YamatoJJ]

Hi, hd!

Sorry, can I ask what an “RF” is: reduced filter?

[lbpesq]

RF refers the radio frequency.   There is a lot more of it floating around in the air than back in the 70’s when Alembic started.   Some older instruments will exhibit RF interference, others will not.   I have a ‘76 guitar and ‘77 12 string guitar, both Series instruments, that didn’t need the upgrade.

Bill, tgo (the guitar one)

[YamatoJJ]

lbpesq: thank you so much!

That would be a lot to pay to have a lot of radio shows come up! Lol

[jazzyvee]

Here is one that has come up for sale in the UK. I saw it recently in Jaydee Custom guitars which is not too far from me having a full refinish and refurb of the brasswork. Slightly cheaper
https://reverb.com/uk/item/48825786-alembic-series-1-1976-purpleheart-top

[YamatoJJ]

Hello, jazzyvee: yep, I saw that one on Reverb, and the Jaydee family did a great job! I always wanted an Iommi cross-inlay guitar from them…..

[hammer]

Prices of Alembics vary greatly between the U.S., U.K., and Japan. Some of that seems due to the greater expense involved in getting a new instrument to another country in the first place but more than anything I think it’s a supply and demand issue. When there are fewer options the prices will be higher. From what I’ve seen internationally though, I’d agree with others that, given its condition, this one is overpriced as are many that I see on Reverb.


If your looking for a Series bass one thing to seriously consider is the body type. I have an short scale Series I with an SC body that’s become my main instrument. It’s comfortable to play for hours and easy to get around when playing a variety of different styles. I also have a medium scale Standard Point but that’s a totally different animal for someone who isn’t 6’2” and 180 lbs. When I play it, it’s typically sitting down as it just doesn’t hang well for me, is heavier, and the sheer body size itself makes it more difficult to play for me. But that’s me. Body size might not be an issue for you.

[YamatoJJ]

Hi, hammer: thanks so much!

I agree: prices are very inflated, and in light of COVID disrupting supply chains (and the economy in general) we’re going to see prices potentially go even higher here in Japan in 2022.

Here in Japan, in the past you could find near-mint used instruments, which made prices less painful. This Alembic is the most beat-up that I’ve seen even compared to those on Reverb, going cheaper.

At 5’10” I would be struggling with a huge bass lol!

[hammer]

If you are not looking for a large bodied bass and don't mind a short scale, Series I and II basses with SC bodies come up fairly often (I've seen a number for approx. $7000).  In addition, although a lot rarer, there are Series basses that use both the Europa and Balance K body types.  I have a 6-string Europa and while the neck is too wide for me to ever have a hope of becoming really proficient using it,  really like the body type.  Jazzyvee has at least one maybe two series basses with that type of body.  I'm sure if you ask that he will direct you to where he has posted photos of them.  Be ready to drool as they are beautiful from what I remember. 

[jazzyvee]

Thanks hammer. I have three series basses with Europa bodies and they are my preference for 5 string basses. Although I don't recall measuring them, i think they are all 34" and really comfortable to play all over the length of the fretboard. Reaching the  D-string tuner is a but if a stretch but you can find a way by shifting the bass towards the right on your hip.
YamatoJJ, We have a member here George Price who fairly recently bought a large bodied series II 8 string fretless and I think he is about 5'6" and doesn't seem to have any problems so you may be able to adapt if you find the right bass. All the best with the search and when the right one comes along i'm confident you will know it.


Here is a link to the ones Hammer Mentioned. Took me a long time to find them.
https://club.alembic.com/index.php?topic=4103.msg227287#msg227287

[YamatoJJ]

Thanks jazzy! So very much appreciated!

I am just in awe of this brand, and while I found a great 92 customized (as explained in my introduction post), I want to try to hear as many sounds from different models/electronics as I can.

Will keep my eyes and ears peeled!

[jazzyvee]

YamatoJJ, If you are on facebook I have a group there specifically to collate sound examples from different alembics playing all kinds of music. It's called "The Sound of my Alembic"
https://www.facebook.com/groups/627214200803337

It has samples from most of the alembic bass models, 4,5, 6 and 8 string basses.

[YamatoJJ]

Jazzyvee, thank you so much, sir: I will apply!

Going down the “rabbit hole” has me wanting to do as much research as possible before deciding on anything, which is a better move, I believe.